IU named one of best campuses for GLBT students

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Indiana University has been named one of the 20 best colleges or universities for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) students in a new book published in connection with the Advocate, a leading U.S.-based gay and lesbian newsmagazine.

The Advocate College Guide for LGBT Students profiles 100 colleges and universities from across the country that offer resources and create a positive living and learning environment for LGBT students. Published by Alyson Books in partnership with the Advocate, it is being touted as the first comprehensive guide to highlight GLBT-friendly campuses in the United States.

"We are honored by the acknowledgement of the work we have done over the years," said Doug Bauder, coordinator of GLBT Student Support Services at IU. "Much of the credit goes to the amazing group of students who continue to provide support and information to the campus community and beyond."

IU's GLBT Student Support Services opened its doors in November 1994. The office serves a critical role in the lives of GLBT students, allies and the larger community, offering counseling, programming, a library and resources. Its staff also has been consulted by dozens of campuses around the country seeking to begin similar services for their students.

The 100 best campuses were selected from 680 nominated campuses based on feedback from more than 5,500 interviews of faculty, staff and GLBT students. Author Shane L. Windmeyer, a 1997 IU alum, national GLBT authority and founder of Campus PrideNet, helped develop the criteria and questionnaire for the nominations. IU's top 20 ranking reflects its gay-friendly environment, GLBT programming and services, and GLBT student coalitions.